Gleason acquires Distech

Gleason Corp. has acquired a Rochester-based manufacturer that company leaders say will increase its capabilities in some markets.

The company has acquired Distech Systems Inc., Gleason said. Distech employs some 40 people, and Gleason said the management and staff will not change. The purchase price was not disclosed.

Distech, incorporated in 1991 and located in a 12,000-square-foot facility on Mt. Read Boulevard, designs and manufactures factory automation systems. The business serves customers in markets such as automotive, general industry and medical.

Daniel Schwab, Distech president, said the two companies have collaborated on projects over the past several years. Glea-son’s market reach and technical and operational competencies will help the growing business, he said.

John Perrotti, Gleason president and CEO, said the deal will provide greater value for Gleason customers by offering engineered manufacturing systems with Gleason products.

Distech’s automation systems can be customized for specific applications and can integrate additional operations such as washing and measuring, helping to create a more complete product for customers, said Alan Finegan, Gleason’s director of marketing.

Distech’s technology will help Gleason in any market and application where fast and accurate loading and the inclusion of secondary operations are among customer requirements, he said.

Gleason makes gear production machinery and related equipment. The company was founded in Rochester in 1865. Its products are used by customers in motor vehicle, aircraft, agriculture, mining, wind power, construction, power tool and marine industries, as well as various industrial equipment markets.

Gleason ranked ninth on the most recent Rochester Business Journal list of manufacturers with 700 local employees.